Former Springbok Derick Hougaard, who has spent almost two weeks in a Pretoria hospital after being found unconscious, is showing promising signs of recovery.

Hougaard’s girlfriend, South African singer Nádine, shared the news on Facebook that the eight-Test flyhalf has opened his eyes and is responsive to medical staff.

It is understood that he has been battling respiratory pneumonia in ICU at Steve Biko Academic Hospital and was at one point given a 50% chance of waking from his coma. He was found unconscious by Nadine, on the morning of Saturday, 10 June.

According to her post, his infection count and blood carbon dioxide levels have decreased, but Hougaard is still undergoing treatment for other complications, and remains unable to speak due to throat tubes.

The 40-year-old made more than 100 appearances for the Vodacom Bulls in all competitions between 2002 and 2008 and is known as the “Liefling” of Loftus for playing a crucial role in a golden era for the Pretoria side.

Since retiring from rugby, Hougaard has tried his hand at a career as a kicker in the NFL and took part in a celebrity boxing match with rock musician Francois van Coke. He has also reportedly been working on a documentary on his life.

Photo: Wessel Oosthuizen/Gallo Images